Calculator
What would your family actually owe?
Inheritance tax is charged at 40% on whatever your estate is worth above your allowances. This works out where you'd stand today, and shows the arithmetic rather than just a total.
The working
- Nil-rate band
- £325,000
- Residence nil-rate band
- £175,000
- Total allowance
- £500,000
- Taxable estate
- £150,000
Estimated tax due
£60,000
A lump sum from life cover written in trust can meet this bill directly, without the estate having to find the money itself. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may change in the future.
This tool ignores gifts made in the last seven years, trusts, business and agricultural relief, and the reduced charity rate.
Thresholds and rates: GOV.UK, 2026/27 tax year.